Rep. Steube calls for firing of Senate Parliamentarian over Trump bill cuts
An unelected Senate parliamentarian should not have the authority to determine the fate of crucial provisions in the proposed “Big, Beautiful Bill,” according to Rep. Greg Steube, R-Fla. In an interview with Fox News Channel, Steube expressed his frustration with Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough’s ruling that several key reforms and tweaks to Medicaid in the Senate GOP’s version of President Trump’s bill did not meet Senate Rules standards. This decision sparked outrage among conservatives, with Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas even calling for MacDonough to be replaced.
During his appearance on FOX Report, Steube echoed Marshall’s sentiments, advocating for the removal of the unelected parliamentarian. He criticized the idea of one individual, who was appointed over a decade ago and is not accountable to voters, having the power to dictate what stays or goes in legislation. Steube emphasized that elected lawmakers, not parliamentarians, should be responsible for making such decisions.
As Republicans currently hold majorities in both the House and the Senate, Steube questioned why Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., did not appoint a Republican parliamentarian to replace MacDonough. Despite calls for her dismissal, Thune has indicated that MacDonough will continue in her role, leading to further frustration among GOP members.
Steube raised concerns about the lack of accountability in the decision-making process, pointing out that MacDonough’s appointment by former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, a Democrat, could potentially bias her rulings. He emphasized that the American people elected their representatives to enact legislation, not to have it blocked by an unelected official.
President Trump also weighed in on the controversy, echoing Steube’s criticism of the parliamentarian’s role in shaping the bill. He took to Truth Social to express his support for Steube’s stance, highlighting the need to prevent unelected staffers from derailing important legislative efforts.
In conclusion, the debate over the Senate parliamentarian’s influence on the “Big, Beautiful Bill” underscores the larger issue of unelected officials shaping legislative outcomes. The pushback from GOP members like Rep. Steube reflects a desire for greater accountability and transparency in the legislative process. It remains to be seen how this conflict will be resolved and its impact on the future of the proposed bill.
